Undermount Tub vs. Drop-In Tub: Which Is Right for You?

When it’s time to design a bathroom, there are several choices to make, including which type of tub you want. Deciding between an undermount tub and a drop-in tub doesn’t have to be challenging as long as you consider their key differences and take your design goals into account. We rounded up what makes undermount and drop-in tubs different to help you make your final decision and create a bathroom you love.

Undermount vs. Drop-In Tub: Key Differences

Undermount tubs and drop-in tubs are very similar with one key difference. Undermount tubs are installed under the deck of a tub enclosure, while drop-in tubs are installed with a ledge that rests on the bathtub deck. Because of this, undermount tubs feature feet on the bottom that allow them to rest on the floor, whereas the weight of a drop-in tub is distributed through the ledge and onto the deck. If you’re unsure which tub is the best fit for your bathroom, a pro can help you weigh the pros and cons.

What Is an Undermount Tub?

An undermount tub has unfinished sides and fits within the tub enclosure frame. It has a flat edge and the deck is added after the undermount tub is fitted into place, creating a sleek and integrated look that can be customized to your bathroom. Because it rests on the floor rather than on the rim of the enclosure, an undermount tub will have feet at the bottom of the basin.

Best for: A high-end bathroom with a customized enclosure and deck

Pros of an Undermount Tub

Undermount tubs can fit enclosures designed for standard tub sizes, but they allow for more style flexibility because the enclosure can feature custom tiling or natural stone. The deck can also be designed to seamlessly integrate the tub and enclosure, resulting in a high-end look. 

Cons of an Undermount Tub

Pricing information isn’t easily accessible for undermount tubs, and hardware stores sometimes classify them as drop-in tubs in the online filter options. Some drop-in tubs can be used as undermount tubs, but you can’t use an undermount tub as a drop-in tub because it won’t have the ledge necessary for installation.

What Is a Drop-In Tub?

A drop-in tub is designed to “drop in” to an existing enclosure. It has unfinished sides and a ledge around the tub that rests on top of the enclosure. Drop-in tubs come in various materials, including fiberglass and acrylic, and different shapes and sizes to fit an existing enclosure. 

If you’re starting from scratch with a new bathroom or remodel, you can determine the type of tub you want and build the enclosure to fit it. For existing enclosures, you’ll have to measure the space to determine the correct tub size.

Best for: DIYers who want a tub that’s easy to install

Pros of a Drop-In Tub

Drop-in tubs, like undermount tubs, can be installed in an existing enclosure, or you can build a custom enclosure based on the tub that you want to install. For tub enclosures with a larger deck, the drop-in tub can rest on a portion of the deck and leave room for bathing supplies. Alternatively, the tub can rest on the enclosure and serve as the entire deck. 

Cons of a Drop-In Tub

Drop-in tubs don’t have as high-end of an appearance as undermount tubs. Their deck is visible—so while they’re less expensive because you don't have to finish the deck—they don’t offer the most seamless look. If you’re starting from scratch and have to build the enclosure, you may require the help of a local plumber to ensure it’s constructed correctly and install the bathtub.

Undermount Tub vs. Drop-In Tub

When considering different types of bathtubs, consider a few different factors. From appearance to maintenance needs, here’s how undermount tubs and drop-in tubs compare.

Appearance: Undermount Tubs

An undermount tub will have a more integrated appearance than a drop-in tub because the deck can be designed to complement the rest of the enclosure. A drop-in tub will have a standard deck or ledge that’s visible on top of the enclosure and won’t look as customized. Considering how you want the final product to look can help you choose the best bathtub.

Options and Customizations: Undermount Tubs

Undermount tubs come out ahead in this category—but just barely. Both drop-in and undermount tubs are available in a range of materials and colors and can have additional features like jets, speakers, and lighting. Undermount tubs have a slight edge because the deck can also be customized.

Price: Drop-In Tubs

Standard drop-in tubs cost between $500 and $2,200. Jetted tubs, drop-in or undermount, cost quite a bit more—up to $10,000 in some cases, depending on size and other features. 

Because undermount tubs are often labeled as drop-in tubs, it can be difficult to find a price just for an undermount style. However, they average between $500 and $5,000, and the price goes up if you want additional features like jets or lighting. 

For both tub styles, you’ll have to account for the cost of the enclosure. For an undermount tub, you’ll need to include the cost of the deck. If you’re working on a budget, determining the cost of the bathtub replacement can help you make a decision. 

Ease of Installation: Drop-In Tubs

While the installation process for drop-in and undermount tubs is similar, undermount tubs require the additional step of installing the deck once the tub is in place. And while this will give you a little more freedom for customization, it will also take some extra time and add to the cost of the project. 

Maintenance: Undermount Tubs

An undermount tub has a slight edge in the maintenance category. Because it’s installed under the deck, it’s easy to wipe down the sides and top of the tub and there are fewer seams to worry about accumulating moisture and mold. That said, drop-in tubs don’t require any special maintenance beyond regular cleaning.